Sabre Vacuum Circuit Breaker Ring Main Unit up to 24kV

with automation and remote control options

ENGINEERING BRILLIANT SOLUTIONS

 Sabre is Small, Smart, Safe and Environmentally Friendly

Contents
2 Sabre - at the cutting edge of Ring Main Unit technology

3 a is for advanced - a new addition to the Sabre range

4 Options

6 Maximising protection and operator safety

7 Preserving the environment

8 Automation Solutions – smarter distribution networks

9 Retrofit actuator solutions

10 Sabre Range - Technical Data

12 Sabre typical arrangements and distribution schematic

1
 Sabre - at the cutting edge of Ring Main Unit technology
Lucy Switchgear has over 100 years experience within the power distribution industry.

Today the company is at the cutting edge of Ring Main Unit design and innovation,

engineering medium and low voltage switchgear and providing retrofit and

automation solutions to customers throughout the world.

Sabre - total flexibility in design

The Sabre range is fully extensible and highly flexible. It is suitable for use in a wide

range of applications including distribution switchboards, transformer substations, ring

distribution networks and HV connections to industrial and commercial sites.

The units are skillfully designed and developed to suit customer requirements for

connection, supply, protection and sectionalising with remote control.

Combining the most advanced vacuum switching technology, the units are compact,

flexible and easy to operate and install. Characterised by their reliability and operational

safety, they are suitable for applications up to 24kV. The Sabre range is fully weatherproof

for outdoor use, has a long service life, and requires virtually zero maintenance in the

most extreme conditions.

A wide selection of product derivatives, including extensible ring switches, circuit breakers

and air insulated metering units can be directly coupled to form multiple panel switchboards

without the need for additional cabling or access to gas insulated chambers.

Sabre Range
Designation Description
Vacuum Ring Main Units - (all with 630A Fault Make, Load Break Ring Switches)
VRN2a Non Extensible with 250A Tee-off. Free Standing or Transformer Mounted
VRN6a Non Extensible with 630A Tee-off. Free Standing
VRN24 24kV Non Extensible with 400A Tee-off. Free Standing
VRE2a Extensible with 250A Tee-off. Free Standing
VRE6a Extensible with 630A Tee-off. Free Standing

Vacuum Circuit Breakers

VCE2a Extensible with 250A Tee-off. Free Standing or Transformer Mounted
VCE6a Extensible with 630A Tee-off. Free Standing

Switches - 630A Load Break, Fault Make

SSE6a Single Switch Extensible. Free Standing
DSE6a Double Switch Extensible. Free Standing
DSN6a Double Switch for Bus Section Isolation and Busbar Earthing

2
 a is for advanced
The Sabre ring main unit range is one of the most compact and ergonomically

designed on the world market. The housing, stand and cable boxes save

weight, and the compact transformer mounted units reduce civil engineering

VRN6a costs. The units have a user friendly front fascia and clear indicator positions

as well as a detailed mimic diagram to facilitate ease of operation.

The ring switch integral cable test facility has been designed to provide easier

access for test equipment, and the VRN6a Sectionaliser RMU now benefits
Key Features from an integral cable test facility on the Tee-off.

• Up to 24kV

• Indoor and outdoor

• Fully extensible units available

• Vacuum Tee-off circuit breaker

• Common switching chamber (metal enclosed)

• Isolation in clean SF6

• Fully rated at atmospheric pressure

• Enhanced duty, in excess of IEC requirements

• Interlocked for safe operation

• Internal arc protection to IEC and ENA TS standards

• Padlocking facilities VRN2a

• Side and rear cable access for maximum operator protection

• Integral ring cable testing

• Integral Tee-off testing on 630A models

• IP54 rated sheet steel housing

• Stainless steel SF6 enclosure sealed for life

• Variety of protection options including Relay and TLF

• 3 mounting heights as standard on 12kV units

Ring switch earth and test

Tee-off earth and test

3
 Options
• Remote operation

Ring Switch Motor Circuit Breaker Motor

• Fault passage indicators

• VPIS (Voltage Presence Indication System)

Sockets only Push Button Neon Indicators

• Top entry and angled cable boxes. Note: Top entry can be assigned on-site
using the standard bottom entry boxes

Angled Cable Box with Top Entry Cable Box

Internal Arc Relief

4
Options
• Transformer mounting or free-standing achieved simply by
using the universal e-flange with or without a cable box

• Castell interlocks for safety interlocking with other

connected equipment on Tee-off and Ring Switches

• Tripped on fault indicator – flag drops if the circuit breaker has been
tripped via a protection operation

• Gland plate variants – for single core and 3-core cable up to 500mm2

• Pre-wired or fully automated for motor actuation

• Internal arc tested cable boxes

5
 Sabre - Maximising Protection and Operator Safety
Having a reliable and continuous supply of energy is becoming more and more

important. This means that the distribution network has to meet ever more

stringent demands.

It goes without saying that safety and operational reliability play a major role.

Protection to Suit Every Application Safety to Personnel

All Sabre units offer a high degree of safety, with customers • Switching parts are contained within an earthed

benefiting from our experience in independent protection stainless steel enclosure

systems. All options provide transformer over current • A single line diagram forms a mimic on the front of
protection for phase to phase faults. Earth fault protection the unit incorporating positively driven mechanical
position indicators
covering phase to earth faults is also available if required.
• Positive safety interlocks on all switch positions prevent
Time limit fuse (TLF) protection or self-powered and auxiliary
incorrect operation
powered relays, both with remote trip and fault trip/alarm
• Padlocking facilities for all switch and selector positions
trip (auxiliary only) facilities are available, depending on

customer requirement. • Internal arc tests are carried out in accordance with
IEC and ENA specifications - internal arc tests are also
completed for cable boxes

• Interlocked cable boxes as an option

System Voltage 11kV
Transformer rating kVA 315 500 800 1000 1250 1500 1600 2000
Current A 16 26 42 52 65 78 84 105
Protection TLF • • • • • • •
Relay • • • • • • •

System Voltage 13.8kV

Transformer rating kVA 500 800 1000 1250 1500 1600 2000 2500
Current A 21 33 42 52 62 67 84 105
Protection TLF • • • • • • •
Relay • • • • • • •

System Voltage 22kV

Transformer rating kVA 800 1000 1250 1500 1600 2000 2500 3150
Current A 21 26 33 39 42 52 66 83
Protection TLF • • • • • • • •
Relay • • • • • • •

Note: System Voltage 24kV is available for cable feeders for over 10MVA.
6
Preserving the Environment
Sustainability and environmental considerations are becoming more and more

important in the choice of switch materials. Lucy Switchgear is committed to

providing products that minimise adverse environmental impacts and contribute

positively to customers’ own environmental objectives.

The Sabre range is designed using vacuum technology that offers high performance

whilst lowering the impact on the environment. The use of vacuum as a fault

interrupting medium, eliminates the production of any toxic and harmful

by-products making the Sabre safe and environmentally friendly. SF6 can be safely

recovered at the end of the units lifespan and re-used after treatment.

This forms part of our contribution towards a greener and sustainable future.

Quality Assurance
Certified Standards: BSEN, ISO 9001:2000

Lucy Switchgear is committed to operating a Quality Management

System which conforms to and exceeds the requirements of the

highest international and customer demands ensuring world

class performance and provide total customer satisfaction.

All new products are designed to ensure that, as a minimum,

they meet all the essential requirements of stringent international

standards. During the manufacture of a Sabre unit, each one

undergoes a number of routine quality checks. Each product is

registered using a ‘birth certificate’ scheme, so that it can be

tracked and monitored for the duration of its lifespan providing

traceability throughout its service life.

7
 Automation Solutions - Smarter Distribution Networks
Deregulation, privatisation and fierce competition… To address these needs and respond to the challenge,

all these factors highlight the need for greater reliability Lucy Switchgear has developed the Gemini family of

of the supply, enhanced system performance and RTUs, Data Concentrators and SCADA systems together

improved customer service. The solution lies in systems with a suite of software applications for switchgear

and software providing real-time representation of automation and remote control.

the network to managers, operators and

decision-makers.

Sabre with Automation

The Sabre range can be made “automation ready” by pre-wiring the

actuator circuits and auxiliary indications such as Open, Closed and Earth

on the ring switches and circuit breaker functions. This allows the purchaser

to upgrade these ring main units to allow remote control or full automation

at a later date to meet evolving operational needs and help reduce

operating costs.

The enhanced system performance that follows the application of

automation to your secondary distribution networks improves quality and

reliability of supply. Other benefits include:

• Increased operator safety

• Reduced time to diagnose, locate and isolate the faulty section of

the network

• Faster response time and network reconfiguration resulting in reduced

number of customer minutes lost and supply interruptions (SAIDI and
SAIFI performance statistics)

• Optimisation of asset management through implementation of

customised automation schemes

• Reduced operational costs for routine network switching

8
Retrofit Actuator Solutions
To address customers’ requirements for remote monitoring and control, Lucy Switchgear

has developed a compact, simple retrofit actuator for the Sabre range ring switches

(for pre-wired units). This actuator design is also utilised for the Tee-off circuit breakers

when required.

The PCB driven rotary actuator is designed for non-intrusive installation. Single or double

actuators can be easily and rapidly fitted to the ring switches on site while the unit is in

service. No access is required to the internal workings of the RMU thereby ensuring the

integrity of electricity supply.

Gemini-RTU 2 Gemini-SCADA
The Gemini-RTU (G2-RTU) has been specifically We offer cost effective software solutions to assist

designed to control and monitor switchgear with the day-to-day management of distribution

equipment. The G2-RTU supports different protocols systems. Based on a high level SCADA programming

and integrates a multitude of functionality including language and field-proven technology, the

current monitoring, voltage sensing, network Gemini software architecture combines flexibility

sectionalising and diagnostics to meet our customers’ and scalability.

evolving automation needs.

Lucy Switchgear can integrate with most existing

The Gemini-RTU can control up to a maximum of SCADA systems or provide a stand alone secondary

four switches via four sets of open and close push SCADA system as part of a turnkey automation

buttons and indications. solution. Full technical support and training services

are also available.

9
 Sabre Range VRN2a VRN6a VRN24 VRE2a VRE6a

Rated Voltage 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV) 24kV 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV)

Impulse Withstand Voltage (kV Peak) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV) 125kV (145kV) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV)

Normal Current

Ring Switches 630A 630A 630A 630A 630A

Circuit Breaker 250A 630A 400A 250A 630A

Busbar 630A 630A 630A 630A 630A

Short Circuit Peak Making Current

Ring Switches 50kA 50kA 40kA 50kA 50kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 50kA 50kA 40kA 50kA 50kA

Short Circuit Breaking Current

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 20kA RMS 20kA RMS 16kA RMS 20kA RMS 20kA RMS

3 Second Short Time Current

Ring Switches 20kA 20kA 16kA 20kA 20kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 20kA 20kA 16kA 20kA 20kA

Earth Switch Peak Making Current

Ring Switches 50kA 50kA 40kA 50kA 50kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 7.9kA 50kA 40kA 7.9kA 50kA

Internal Arc Rating

Freestanding 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec 16kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec

Transformer Mounted 20kA 1 sec in ENA Housing 20kA 1 sec in ENA Housing n/a n/a n/a

Gas Pressure

MOP zero bar (G) zero bar (G) 0.3 bar (G) zero bar (G) zero bar (G)

IP Rating

Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W

Dimensions

Height (mm) 1715, 1635 or 1415 1775, 1690 or 1470 1590 1715 1715

Width (mm) 950 950 950 950 950

Depth (mm) 1080 1080 1130 1080 1080

Weight (kg) 350 360 425 375 385

Weight of SF6 (kg) 1.46 1.46 1.56 1.78 1.91

Protection

TLF – Time Limit Fuse • • • •

Auxiliary Powered Relay • • • • •

Self Powered Relay • • • • •

Testing Standards Applicable

IEC 62271-103 • • • • •

IEC 62271-100 • • •

IEC 62271-102 • • • • •

IEC 60056 • • • • •

IEC 60265-1 • • • • •

IEC 60129 • • • • •

IEC 60694 • • • • •

IEC 60298 • • • • •

ENA TS 41-36 • • • • •

IEC 62271-200 • • • • •

10
 VCE2a VCE6a SSE6a DSE6a DSN6a

Rated Voltage 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV) 12kV (15.5kV)

Impulse Withstand Voltage (kV Peak) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV) 75kV (95kV)

Normal Current

Ring Switches n/a n/a 630A 630A 630A

Circuit Breaker 250A 630A n/a n/a n/a

Busbar 630A 630A 630A 630A 630A

Short Circuit Peak Making Current

Ring Switches n/a n/a 50kA 50kA 50kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 50kA 50kA n/a n/a n/a

Short Circuit Breaking Current

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 20kA RMS 20kA RMS n/a n/a n/a

3 Second Short Time Current

Ring Switches n/a n/a 20kA 20kA 20kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 20kA 20kA n/a n/a n/a

Earth Switch Peak Making Current

Ring Switches n/a n/a 50kA 50kA 50kA

Tee-off Circuit Breaker 7.9kA 50kA n/a n/a n/a

Internal Arc Rating

Freestanding 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec 20kA 1 sec

Transformer Mounted 20kA 1 sec in ENA Housing n/a n/a n/a n/a

Gas Pressure

MOP zero bar (G) zero bar (G) zero bar (G) zero bar (G) zero bar (G)

IP Rating

Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W Up to IP54W

Dimensions

Height (mm) 1715 1715 1360 1260 1260

Width (mm) 565 + busbar 565 + busbar 515 + busbar 565 + busbar 565 + busbar

Depth (mm) 1080 1080 1065 825 825

Weight (kg) 290 300 230 270 260

Weight of SF6 (kg) 1.05 1.05 0.78 0.98 0.98

Protection

TLF – Time Limit Fuse •

Auxiliary Powered Relay • •

Self Powered Relay • •

Testing Standards Applicable

IEC 62271-103 • • • • •

IEC 62271-100 • • • • •

IEC 62271-102 • • • • •

IEC 60056 • • • • •

IEC 60265-1 • • • • •

IEC 60129 • • • • •

IEC 60694 • • • • •

IEC 60298 • • • • •

ENA TS 41-36 • • • • •

IEC 62271-200 • • • • •

11
 Sabre Typical Arrangements

Non-Extensible

VRN2a VRN6a VRN24

Extensible Range

VRE2a VRE6a VCE2a VCE6a SSE6a

12
Air Insulated Metering Unit (AMU)

AMU 2/4/6 - TC
Tee-off Connected AMU 6 - BC AMU 2/4/6 - FS
(Cantilevering on rear of RMU) Busbar Connected Freestanding

NB Please refer to HV Metering Unit brochure for more details on the AMU.

Typical Distribution Schematic

DSE6a DSN6a

13
 utilities uk

Our major customers include UK

Distribution Network Operators (DNOs):

CE
EDF ENERGY
CENTRAL NETWORKS
JERSEY ELECTRICITY
MANX ELECTRICITY AUTHORITY
NORTHERN IRELAND ELECTRICITY
SCOTTISH POWER
SCOTTISH & SOUTHERN ENERGY
UNITED UTILITIES
WESTERN POWER DISTRIBUTION

industry uk

DATA CENTRES
HEALTH AUTHORITIES
LOCAL AUTHORITIES
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
OIL & GAS
SCHOOLS & UNIVERSITIES
WATER AUTHORITIES

export worldwide

Delivering Lucy Switchgear products worldwide:

ADWEA • ABU DHABI

CLP • HONG KONG
CODENSA • COLOMBIA
DEWA • DUBAI
ECG • GHANA
ENERGY AUSTRALIA • AUSTRALIA
K P L C • K E N YA
MEW • BAHRAIN
MEW • KUWAIT
NEPA • NIGERIA
POWER GRID • SINGAPORE
UMEME • UGANDA

A global network
In association with industrial partners and contractors, Lucy

Switchgear has established a global network operating in over

Lucy Switchgear
Howland Road, Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 3UJ, UK 50 countries. Currently 50 agents, joint venture associates and
tel: +44 (0)1844 267267 fax: +44 (0)1844 267223 trading partners represent Lucy Switchgear products all over
email: sales@lucyswitchgear.com
the world from Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, Africa,
Lucy Middle East Australasia, Central America, the Caribbean to South America
PO Box 17335, Jebel AliDubai, United Arab Emirates
thus strengthening the Lucy presence globally.
tel: +9714 812 9999 fax: +9714 812 9900
email: sales@lucyme.ae
With headquarters in Oxfordshire, UK, and a main regional

The Saudi Lucy Company Ltd office in Dubai, servicing the Middle East, the Lucy group is
PO Box 834, Al-Khobar, 31952, Saudi Arabia
constantly looking to develop further partnerships.
tel: +966 3 8823057 fax:+ 966 3 8822553
email: info@saudilucy.com

www.lucyswitchgear.com LS00008 SABRE RMU 01 2008 (1000) 6055